What does Juliet's attitude towards marriage tell us about her character?

1 answer

Juliet's attitude towards marriage in Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" reveals several key aspects of her character. Initially, she is portrayed as a young girl who is somewhat indifferent to the idea of marriage. When her mother first broaches the topic of marrying Paris, Juliet responds with a polite willingness to consider him, indicating her obedience to her family and social expectations. This suggests that she possesses a certain degree of naivety and docility regarding the traditional roles of women in her society.

However, as the play progresses, Juliet's feelings about marriage evolve dramatically, particularly after she meets Romeo. Her attitude shifts from passive acceptance to passionate desire. This transition highlights her capacity for deep emotional connection and her willingness to defy societal norms. She pursues a love that transcends her family's expectations and the social constraints of her time.

Juliet's determination to marry Romeo, despite the feud between their families, illustrates her strong-willed and independent nature. It shows her readiness to take risks for love, prioritizing her personal desires over familial obligations. This defiance underscores her romantic ideals and deepens her character as a figure who longs for agency in a restrictive society.

In summary, Juliet's evolving attitude towards marriage reveals her journey from innocence and obedience to passionate love and defiance, highlighting her complexity as a character who seeks her own identity amid familial and societal pressures.